Yes, that would be an unusual sighting Tim. Alternative logical
possibilities are that it might be an immature jabiru/black necked
stork, or that it is a different species altogether that has blown into
the country [ie a non Aus vagrant].
Regards, Laurie
On Monday, October 2, 2006, at 05:44 PM, Tim Murphy wrote:
I have just posted a sighting record on the Birds Queensland Web Site
of a
reported Great-billed Heron near (45-50 km east on highway) Cunnamulla,
SOUTH WEST QUEENSLAND/ It was reported in a shallow lagoon near the
highway
on the 22nd September.
The observer, who describes himself as a competent and keen bird
watcher (he
has been to see the GH Lapwing) saw one large stout heron (smaller than
Jabiru) with correct color for GBH. It was observed at 250 meters in a
small
lagoon though a 50X Kiowa scope. The water in the lagoon was so
shallow that
it was assumed to be grass but dancing Brolgas were splashing water.
As sightings officer of Birds Queensland, I am well aware that this
location
is 750 from the sea and is almost incredible for a non--migratory
coastal
bird.
The observer did not have his digital camera with him, and my attempt
to
verify the bird (I was near Cunnamulla) failed due to a con rod though
a
crank case.
I am reporting this for the delection and interest of BQ_Forum and
Bird_Aus
members, so that anyone in the area might check it and that any
possible
suggestions as to alternative identification could be made.
Tim Murphy
PS. I did not suggest filling in a rare bird report - it would not be
accepted in a million years.
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